Banana Curlz in Caron Simply Soft - Downloadable PDF

Banana Curlz Crochet Hair Ties in Caron Simply Soft – Free Downloadable PDF Pattern by Beth Madland

What You'll Make

This free, beginner-friendly crochet pattern by Beth Madland guides you through creating a pair of playful, curly hair ties known as Banana Curlz. Each finished piece features two springy curlicues connected by a short length of chain that wraps comfortably around a ponytail. The result is a fun, colorful hair accessory that adds a pop of personality to any up-do, braid, or bun. Because the pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, you can save it to any device and return to it whenever inspiration strikes.

Design Details

Each hair tie consists of two distinct curlicue shapes. The tight spiral effect is achieved by working a high number of double crochet stitches into a relatively short foundation chain, causing the piece to naturally curl and coil on itself. The two curlicues are joined by approximately 15 chain stitches, which form the functional tie section that loops around a ponytail. The overall construction is compact and quick, making these hair ties an ideal project for using up small amounts of leftover yarn.

Techniques and Stitches Used

• Foundation chain: The project begins with a crochet chain of 14 stitches, establishing the base for the first curlicue.
• Working into the top loop only: Stitches are worked exclusively into the top loop of each chain stitch, a technique that contributes to the curling effect and gives the finished piece a slightly different texture than standard two-loop crochet.
• Double crochet (dc): The primary stitch throughout the pattern. Working 6 double crochets into the fourth chain from the hook and then 7 double crochets into each remaining chain creates the dense, ruffled fabric that naturally spirals into a curlicue shape.
• Chain stitch: Used both as the foundation and as the connecting bridge of approximately 30 additional chain stitches between the two curlicues.
• Finishing: The pattern concludes by cutting the yarn, pulling it through the final loop to secure, and weaving in the loose ends for a tidy finish.

Understanding the Curlicue Effect

The signature curl in these hair ties is a direct result of the stitch ratio: by packing far more double crochet stitches into each chain space than would lie flat, the fabric is forced to ripple and spiral. This is a classic crochet technique sometimes used in ruffles, flowers, and decorative edgings. No shaping, increases in the traditional sense, or special stitch patterns are required — the curl happens naturally as a result of the stitch count alone. This makes the construction very straightforward and easy to understand even for those who are brand new to crochet.

Materials

• Yarn: Caron Simply Soft in your choice of color — only a very small amount is needed, making this a great stash-busting project. Caron Simply Soft is an aran weight yarn, offering a smooth, soft finish that works up quickly and holds its shape well in accessories.
• Hook: A standard crochet hook appropriate for aran weight yarn is recommended (typically a size 5 mm / H-8, though the pattern allows flexibility based on personal gauge and preference).
• Additional materials: A yarn needle for weaving in ends; scissors.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as a beginner crochet project, Banana Curlz requires only the most fundamental crochet skills: chaining and working double crochets. There are no complex stitch combinations, no joining rounds, and no counting of multiple stitch types simultaneously. The repetitive nature of the pattern — chain, then work double crochets across — makes it easy to memorize after the first curlicue. Because the finished item is small and uses minimal yarn, it can typically be completed in under an hour, making it a satisfying quick-make for crocheters of all experience levels who want a fast, rewarding result.

Pattern Format

The Banana Curlz pattern by Beth Madland is available as a free downloadable PDF from Caron